Tourism in Austria's major cities proved to be a key driver of the national economy in 2025. With a total of 29,1 million overnight stays, the nine state capitals recorded a significant increase of six percent compared to the previous year.
This means that almost one in five overnight stays in Austria takes place in urban areas. The capital city of Vienna particularly dominates this segment, accounting for around two-thirds of urban overnight stays. Without the strong growth in metropolitan areas, overall tourism growth in Austria would have stagnated at just one percent, underscoring the importance of cities for economic stability.
A key characteristic of this trend is its independence from seasonal fluctuations. Unlike alpine winter or summer tourism, these cities function as year-round destinations. This allows the industry to create permanent jobs, which is considered a strategic advantage given the general shortage of skilled workers. The diverse offerings of high culture, conferences, and major international events attract an affluent audience from around the world. In 2026, Vienna, in particular, will once again be in the global spotlight by hosting the 70th Eurovision Song Contest, promising further impetus for the hotel and restaurant sectors.
The economic impact of city tourism extends far beyond the accommodation sector. So-called spillover effects generate significant revenue for retailers and local service providers. Furthermore, state capitals act as central mobility hubs, serving as a central point of contact for all Austrian travel. Revenue from the tourism tax and the increased added value flows directly back into urban infrastructure and the preservation of historical cultural assets. Thus, the sector not only secures private profits but also finances public services that benefit the local population.
Experts see the internationalization of visitors as the key to success. While traditional leisure tourism is often limited to source markets in the DACH region (Germany, Austria, and Switzerland), urban centers are increasingly attracting travelers from overseas and Asia. These visitor groups are characterized by above-average spending power, particularly in the areas of luxury shopping and fine dining. The combination of business travel, conferences, and private cultural tourism creates a robust business model that keeps Austria competitive in the international arena of metropolitan regions.